Human (2015)
Film details
Documentary · Yann Arthus-Bertrand · 3h 11min
Synopsis
A collection of stories about and images of our world, offering an immersion to the core of what it means to be human. Through these stories full of love and happiness, as well as hatred and violence, it brings us face to face with the Other, making us reflect on our lives. From stories of everyday experiences to accounts of the most unbelievable lives, these poignant encounters share a rare sincerity and underline who we are – our darker side, but also what is most noble in us, and what is universal. Our Earth is shown at its most sublime through never-before-seen aerial images accompanied by soaring music, resulting in an ode to the beauty of the world, providing a moment to draw breath and for introspection. This film is a politically engaged work which allows us to embrace the human condition and to reflect on the meaning of our existence.
Verdict
Normalizes homosexuality as human diversity through emotional testimonies.
In-depth analysis
Under the guise of a humanist and contemplative documentary, Human employs the power of personal testimony to validate, without counterpoint, a relativistic view of the person and sexuality. The format is ingenious: face-to-camera testimonies from people worldwide speaking of their lives, interspersed with breathtaking aerial shots. The narrative strategy relies on empathy: upon hearing stories of suffering, love, and triumph, the viewer lowers their critical guard. Among these testimonies, the documentary includes accounts from individuals who speak of their homosexuality, presenting it as a natural part of 'human diversity,' without alternative perspective or questioning.
The issue is not to display the pain or dignity of these individuals — both are real. The issue is that the documentary equates every human experience as equally valid and commendable under the umbrella of 'diversity,' blurring the distinction between legitimate cultural diversity and anthropological redefinition. The absence of an explicit narrative thesis is the thesis: everything is relative, every experience is equally valuable, to question any is intolerance. The visual beauty and production quality ensure that the message penetrates deeply without the viewer noticing. For families, it is a paradigmatic example of how ideological content is introduced under the guise of humanist contemplation. Not recommended.